Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei held a press conference on January 9, 2013.

Q: First, Japanese media reported that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe ordered stronger surveillance around the Diaoyu Islands, including allowing fighter jets of its Self-Defense Force to fire warning shots at planes that violate the Japanese "airspace" or disobey its radio warning. What is China's comment? Second, the new Japanese administration recently launched a diplomatic campaign, such as sending senior officials to visit ASEAN countries and Australia, which happen to surround China. What is China's comment on Japan's new diplomatic movements?

A: On your first question, the Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islands are China's inherent territory. Patrols of Chinese government vessels and planes in the waters and airspace of the Diaoyu Islands are normal performance of duty to exercise jurisdiction. China always opposes Japan's infringement acts in the waters and airspace of China's Diaoyu Islands and remains highly vigilant against Japan's acts to escalate the tension.

On your second question, we have noted relevant reports.

Q: Japanese media reported that Japan's Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera had a telephone conversation with US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta on January 8, reaching consensus on joint response to the Diaoyu Islands issue. What is China's comment?

A: China always maintains that territorial disputes should be resolved through bilateral dialogues and negotiations. Any attempt to draw in a third party to intervene in the Diaoyu Islands issue will be in vain.